Osteoarthritis

Question 1

Q1: What type of joints does osteoarthritis primarily affect?

Answer 1

Synovial joints - fluid filled cavity.

Question 2

What structural changes occur in OA?

Answer 2

Cartilage loss, bone remodelling, osteophyte formation, and mild synovitis.

Question 3

Which joints are most commonly affected by OA?

Answer 3

Knees, hips, and small hand joints.

Question 4

What are the hallmark symptoms of OA?

Answer 4

Joint pain, stiffness (usually <30 minutes), loss of function, and flare-ups lasting 3–8 days.

Question 5

What non-pharmacological strategies are first-line for OA management?

Answer 5

Patient education, weight management, appropriate footwear, individualised exercise, and manual therapy (with exercise).

Question 6

What is the first-line pharmacological treatment for knee OA?

Answer 6

Topical NSAIDs.

Question 7

When should paracetamol or weak opioids be used in OA?

Answer 7

Only occasionally for short-term relief when other treatments are unsuitable or ineffective.

Question 8

What topical treatment may help knee OA symptoms besides NSAIDs?

Answer 8

Topical capsaicin.